Broadway’s iconic musical, *Chicago*, is poised to mark a significant milestone this November as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of its acclaimed revival. Originally opened in 1996, the production has become the longest-running show in Broadway history. To commemorate this achievement, a special performance featuring original cast members and various celebrity alumni will take place on 16 November 2026 at the Ambassador Theatre in New York City.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/bebe-neuwirth-ariana-madix-whitney-leavitt-100826-ac30b604b984499584bbafef2f041558.jpg)
The celebratory event is scheduled for 7 p.m. and promises an evening of entertainment that brings together talent from throughout the show’s illustrious journey. Among the notable figures returning for this singular occasion are Bebe Neuwirth and James Naughton, both of whom earned Tony Awards for their respective roles in the revival—Neuwirth for Velma Kelly and Naughton for slick lawyer Billy Flynn.
Joining Neuwirth and Naughton will be a host of celebrity alumni, including Ariana Madix, Whitney Leavitt, Alex Newell, Robyn Hurder, and Reece Weaver. The lineup is expected to expand with the addition of more special guests closer to the date. The performance will benefit the Entertainment Community Fund’s programmes focused on supporting dancers, reflecting the musical’s commitment to the arts community.
In the lead-up to this event, *Chicago* continues to define the landscape of contemporary theatre. Madix, who made headlines on Bravo’s *Vanderpump Rules*, made her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in 2024 and later reprised the role. Similarly, Leavitt—known for her breakout in *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*—has also taken on the role of Roxie in a subsequent engagement. Notably, Newell, who won a Tony for his performance in *Shucked*, portrayed Matron “Mama” Morton for a limited run earlier this year.
The upcoming celebration comes on the heels of *Chicago*’s appearance at the 2026 Tony Awards in June, where it garnered attention with a tribute performance showcasing its ongoing legacy. Introduced by Queen Latifah, the event featured various performers, including Newell’s rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” and a dynamic ensemble performance of “Cell Block Tango.” The closing act, delivered by Pink, highlighted the musical’s enduring appeal and artistic influence.
Originally opening on Broadway at the Richard Rodgers Theatre in 1996, *Chicago* quickly transitioned to the Ambassador Theatre, where it has consistently captivated audiences with its unique blend of story, music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, and choreography reminiscent of Bob Fosse’s distinctive style. Over the years, it has won several prestigious accolades, including six Tony Awards, affirming its status as a pinnacle of American musical theatre.
The history of *Chicago* extends back beyond its revival, first appearing on Broadway in 1975. The original production showcased renowned performers such as Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera but did not secure any Tony wins despite receiving eleven nominations. The 1996 revival redefined the show’s legacy and led to a resurgence of interest in musical theatre.
In the time since its revival, *Chicago* has welcomed a plethora of notable stars from various fields, including musicians, television personalities, and actors from film fame. Celebrities who have graced the stage include Pamela Anderson, Melanie Griffith, and even Usher, reflecting the show’s expansive influence and appeal across multiple domains of entertainment.
The 2002 film adaptation of *Chicago*, directed by Rob Marshall, further contributed to the show’s fame, receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards, including six Academy Awards. This cinematic success not only showcased the musical’s enduring popularity but also introduced it to new audiences worldwide.
As *Chicago* prepares to celebrate its 30-year anniversary, the current cast continues the legacy of stage brilliance. Reece Weaver currently stars as Roxie Hart, supported by a talented ensemble. The upcoming anniversary event promises to be a spectacular celebration of artistry, talent, and community support.
Tickets for the one-night-only performance will be available from 10 a.m. ET on 15 October through Telecharge. Proceeds from the evening will assist the Entertainment Community Fund, historically known as the Actors Fund, in its mission to support arts professionals. With the exception of a few months, the show has enchanted audiences since its inception, creating an indelible mark on Broadway that is set to continue for years to come.